Old Navy knows that in today’s job market, employee training is valuable. Through their job training programs, Old Navy builds loyalty with their new recruits, some stay for long-term careers at the company.
Since 2019, Old Navy and SETA Sacramento Works have hosted a ten-week summer internship program for first-time workers. Sacramento Works teaches the interns basic job skills who then train in-person with a designated team member at Old Navy.
After their internship, the trainees have an opportunity to interview for long-term positions at Old Navy. Ken Kurahara, a General Manager at Old Navy, notes that even if interns don’t stay with the company, the program is worth it. “I’m happy to bring on a young person for their first opportunity; I feel like I’m building their talent for wherever they end up,” Ken says.
The program has a great retention rate. Trainees stay an average of two years. This is an exceptional amount of time in the retail world—the industry’s overall annual separation rate is 64%. There are a number of trainees who have stayed longer as well. Two have even moved into management positions.
Old Navy and the staff at SETA Sacramento Works are pleased with the Sacramento-area program and hope to expand it to include more stores soon. Ken notes, “our staff loves everyone we’re bringing on.
